Excursion : Anglet > Biarritz > Saint-Jean-de-Luz > Hendaye

Four charismatic cities along the Bay of Biscay proudly display the colours of their shared history. Explore this vibrant, authentic terroir of tradition on the edge of Spain and the Pyrenees.

ANGLET

Bayonne, capital of the French Basque Country, is a veritable epicurean city. Whether it's with chocolate, ham or public celebrations, it has been radiating pleasure for decades. Anglet, only 5 km from Bayonne, has three distinct ambiances...

Bucolic

Known as "Little California", Anglet has 11 sandy beaches. Fall under the spell of the "petite Chambre d'Amour", the famous beach at the foot of the Cap Saint-Martin cliff and its lighthouse.

Dynamic

It is Europe's top surfing destination. Take advantage of its 4,5 km long coastline to ride a few waves, play an 18-hole round of golf at Chiberta, or simply soak in the heated seawater at the Atlanthal thalassotherapy centre.

Epic

On Thursday and Sunday mornings, rendezvous at the Quintaou market to fill your basket with ewe cheese, green peppers and sumptuous Basque cakes.

BIARRITZ

Anglet > Biarritz: 4 km (3 miles) via Biarritz Avenue, 10 min by car

From Anglet, Biarritz is only ten minutes away, and much like its majestic Virgin's Rock, this seaside resort dominates the region. A veritable surfers' paradise, this gastronomic heartland is also a hub for business tourism. Insider cues on how to live like the locals...

Culture

The oceanfront Hotel de Palais, revealed in 1864 by Empress Eugénie and Napoleon III, is witness to a particularly prestigious past. Other esteemed must-sees: the Art deco Sea Museum Aquarium, with its sharks and barracudas, and the City of the Ocean, where you can embark on a captivating virtual odyssey.

Cuisine

The gastronomic Villa Eugénie restaurant boasts a highly refined menu, as do nearby L’Impertinent, Les Rosiers and L’Atelier. All have been awarded stars by the famous Michelin Guide.

Wellbeing

Attend a Basque pelota or rugby tournament, perfect your swing on one of 12 legendary golf courses, or ride your first wave with one of 11 local surf clubs. Thalassotherapy, which combines the benefits of clement climate and seawater, is, of course, another ideal way to revitalize.

HENDAYE

Drive 12 km down the coast to Hendaye. This final stop before Spain embodies Basque culture... Just follow your guide!

The Château-Observatory

Abbadia, at the entrance of town, is a Neo-Gothic masterpiece built by Viollet Le Duc for Antoine d’Abbadie, great explorer and patron of Basque culture. From the library to the observatory, passing by the chapel, delve into an extraordinary destiny.

Hike along the cliff's edge

Take advantage of the incredible view then relax on the 3 km long beach, the Basque Coast's largest stretch of white sand!

The oceanfront

It is lined with Neo-Basque villas, with white facades and colourful half-timbering - 70 of which are listed protected by the town.

Food

Make sure to try piquillos, axoa and other typical Basque piperade.

Shopping

The colourful Basque fabric makes for beautiful home linens. And don't forget to get a pair of those fashionable espadrilles!